Five Reasons Auburn beats UMass

Jordan-Hare, Hugh Freeze and the Tigers are too much for the Minutemen.

Author:
Steve Simpson
Publish date:
Sep 1, 2023 6:00 PM EDT

In this story:

Auburn Tigers

It's been said by some that the Auburn Tigers couldn't have scheduled a better opening day opponent to begin the Hugh Freeze era than the UMass Minutemen.

That may be true, but it was hardly planned as this game was scheduled four years ago. But the hand of providence has delivered a sacrificial lamb to the Tigers. Auburn will feast Saturday and these are the reasons why.

1. Coaching

Hugh Freeze at Auburn football practice — Eric Starling/Auburn Daily

Hugh Freeze's Liberty teams averaged 53 points in four straight games against UMass. There's reason to believe that trend will continue on Saturday.

Minutemen head coach Don Brown has been known to have feisty defenses in the past regardless of talent level. It can easily be argued that the Tigers' staff has a leg up on UMass.

2. Depth

Nick Mardner and Shane Hooks at Auburn football practice - Eric Starling/Auburn Daily — Eric Starling/Auburn Daily

Auburn has better players than UMass at every position. Seems odd to say after the last few years, but the depth of the offensive and defensive lines will wear down the Minutemen, along with the Alabama heat & humidity.

3. Rushing game

AUBURN, AL - August 08, 2023 - Auburn Running Back Damari Alston (#22) during a Fall camp practice at the Woltosz Football Performance Center in Auburn, AL. — Photo by Austin Perryman/Auburn Athletics

Auburn should lean heavily on the run game. With a stable full of elite running backs, there will not be a shortage of fresh legs to carry the ball. That will keep the clock running and tilt the time of possession to the Tigers.

4. Big plays

Payton Thorne — Eric Starling/Auburn Daily

Big plays will come from both the passing and rushing attack. Peyton Thorne should have a nice debut and will connect on at lease two deep balls for big gains. Jarquez Hunter and Damari Alston will each have long gainers.

5. Special teams

Evan McPherson kick during the Football Game between the Auburn Tigers and Texas A&M Aggies at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, AL on Saturday, Nov 12, 2022. Todd Van Emst/Auburn Tigers — Todd Van Emst/Auburn Tigers

Alex McPherson is ready to assume the mantle of the best placekicker in the SEC. He'll get a chance for at least one long field goal attempt to show off his powerful leg. Oscar Chapman will keep the Minutemen backed up on their end of the field and Brian Battie will have at least one explosive play in the return game.